Long-Haul Motorcycle Touring - Tips for Staying Awake

There has been an alarming rise in the number of big cruisers involved in motorcycle crashes. Big distance brings bigger fatigue but there are ways to minimize your risk of succumbing to the zzzs.
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[@danpetreikis]

..."but the piercing frequencies - high RPMs, wind turbulence.... Kpop... are blissfully blocked." gold.

[@RideAmerica]

LOL Yep and in his deep voice saying Barry White and Leonard Cohen being his usual wingmen.

[@thumpertorque_]

Kpop shit was funny 😂

[@noobingear2018]

😂 kpop lol

[@Amundsenkalmah]

I felt personally attacked

[@aduyman]

well i actually approve this for Kpop. I often listening kpop music when riding on city, but when on long trip i try not to. I'm aware that i lose concentration faster when listening kpop music or etc.

[@edbrown5665]

Been a long haul truck driver for nearly 2 decades. You left out a very important tip. Take regular breaks at least every 2 hours. Get of the bike walk around enjoy the scenery be mildly active to get the blood flowing for about 15 minutes and do gentle stretching before you get back on the road. Especially lower back and legs

[@optimizedlaziness6183]

The practice of taking a break every 2ish hours is taught in french driving schools too. I wonder if it's also present in other countries' driving education systems

[@russy264]

@@optimizedlaziness6183it is in Australia

[@rpontonjr]

I would add "Don't have a deadline." Making arrangements that mean you *must* be 500 miles away by EOD is a great way to force yourself into riding tired, distracted, or in poor conditions even when you know you shouldn't be. It also means you'll skip opportunities to explore interesting side roads or have pleasant conversations with people you meet, which is half the fun of a road trip.

[@AgentJayZ]

Today, I rode from 8 am to 6:30 pm. Yesterday it was 6:45 am to 5 pm. 1300 Km in two days. I survived by doing the standing stretch whenever I could, drinking water at every stop, which was every two hours, because I took my dog along in a rear "pod". I listen to the road and the wind, through earplugs. I think one of the biggest hazards not mentioned here is hypothermia. At 15C, and 100Km/hr, the wind chill is about 0C. And that's without rain... Ryan F9 is the best source of motorcycle info on the planet!

[@hodaka1000]

Three pairs of socks seem to help with the cold just pull up and add a pair if needed I take two or three pairs of gloves spare pairs for rain, when you stop if it's wet or cold try leaving your gloves on the engine to warm and dry If you can find them get a pair of rubber over-boots

[@SurmaSampo]

I did 1000km in a single day on a 650 Burgman with wife and luggage during 35 degree heat over the course of 14 hours. It was a painful experience I wouldn't like to repeat especially riding through a tropical storm on a busy country 2 lane highway. I thought the wind gusts that would push the bike from near center of road to the edge was bad until we pasted through the eye and started to get pushed to the opposing traffic. At least it cooled us down for the next hour until we dried out. The two smart things we did was make our own hydration packs which kept us hydrated with cold bottled water during the ride and changing from a 15 minute break every 2 hours to a 5 minute break every 45-60 minutes. The ride back a week later was spread over 2 days to reduce cramping. 600KM/day in the saddle is probably my practical limit. Another thing I have learned since is if you are in hot weather then don't use rain gear. Water resistant gear in hot and especially humid conditions leads to heat exhaustion and dehydration plus your clothes and gear become soaked in sweat. I have no real experience with cold weather to be honest.

[@jacobponce9900]

@@SurmaSampo thanks for the tips!

[@admin5448]

@@SurmaSampo i live in tropical country and the problem is the temperature drop. when you riding in broad daylight with touring jacket its freaking hot and you change to more thin jacket (sometimes i am riding with a hoodie, yes i am a maniac dont follow me) and then you riding at night the temperature sometimes drop between 10-20°c cooler than its at day and then you starting to wonder why you wearing a thin jacket 🤣 *sorry for the bad english

[@SurmaSampo]

@@admin5448 Yeah it can be about 5-10°c variation here near the coast but that gets larger the further you go inland due to the lack of humidity. In truly tropical areas which seem to much closer to the equator the variation gets smaller and daytime temps start hitting 40°c. Going from 30°c to 20°c doesn't really need a change of clothes in my experience. Keep a rain liner with your bike so you can cut wind chill and it will also help trap enough heat.

[@deanmalkewich2366]

“The rider was seen with his back arched and feet behind the pillion pegs before he crashed”

[@thetessellater9163]

If there were others around then, as advised, he should not have done it. If he didn't practice in an unused lot, as advised, he should not have done it. Logic is essential, but it may have been a joke.

[@deanmalkewich2366]

the tessellater it was a joke.

[@hemansx]

shit son, havent burst out laughing at a youtube comment for a while, 10/10

[@vamsikrishna7755]

LMAO

[@jerometubog2467]

That was good man

[@alanbstard4]

if you feel tired stop and rest. No alternative

[@903strikerunit]

Keep your sleeping bag handy

[@Granyonky]

That makes the whole trip longer as well

[@NoGlockTrucker]

Alan B'Stard M P With 25 years and over 2 million miles driving truck all over the USA, I can most definitely confirm this.

[@GameCyborgCh]

you're right. taking breaks is irreplaceable. these tips do help by reducing the amount and length of breaks.

[@alanbstard4]

@@NoGlockTrucker that's a lot of experience you have

[@AVweb]

I know all that stretching stuff. Do it all the time. What I like is that circular continuous tracking shot explaining it. Ninja level shit.

[@earthtowise8040]

I loved how clean that shot was. Sticking to a script, while doing everything simply and cohesively, even turning the bike off kept the rhythm. Way cool

[@pacadet]

Paul B posting on a motorcycle video. Top 10 anime crossovers.

[@mbazzy123]

@@pacadet Paul is awesome he needs to do more videos !

[@davem5333]

When you start even thinking about sleeping, it is time for a rest.

[@keshavarora2147]

Love how Ryan picks up topics that are so important but almost no other motorcycle youtube channel covers. Loveky video as always!

[@3-body-problem]

MC Rider comes close. (Providing he doesn't get too preachy with the gospel)

[@flippy66]

@@3-body-problem I disagree, his videos are entirely opinion, they're mostly just his fat face two inches from the camera, and they're longwinded waffles.

[@tototolkienmusikfan3]

That garage door transition was so damn smooth

[@MrEazyE357]

It was actually a box truck door, but yeah.

[@potatojake197]

@@MrEazyE357 It was not a box truck door at all. It was their headquarters garage door and a simple edit to make it transition smoothly to the parking lot

[@carjac820]

*"but the piercing frequencies, high rpms, rapid turbulence, k-pop, that's more damaging"* Lmao, had me dying 😂🤣

[@jggimi]

Aneesh, every transition in this had me saying, "Woah! Aneesh did it again! Cool! I should tell him how much I appreciate this!" Out loud.. So here I am, thanking you for more awesomeness.

[@jackwii1472]

Aneesh and Ryan are awesome

[@JRClaybrook1]

Sometimes, you just have to pull over! The trick though, is having the self-control to tell sleepy self to pull over and sleepy self having the willpower to do it.

[@mariodonkartworks]

True, i find myself thinking its only a short way to go, but thats so deadly, pull over

[@KristopherNoronha]

I once pulled over and fell asleep with my head on the loaded tank bag. Didn't even turn off the engine or switch to neutral, or pull down the kickstand. No idea how long I slept, but I woke up and the engine was still running, clutch in, and I was still upright and on my feet :D

[@yudadwiparamarta7619]

Very true. I once pushed myself after a full day of working, riding home with sleepy eyes, almost hit a parked car on the side of the road 3 times, and finally fall down on an empty road just 2 km from home. Lesson learned the hard way. Not going to convince myself to stay awake anymore, just stop if you feel tired.

[@guard13007]

@@mariodonkartworks Big same, I once pulled over 10 minutes from home and slept in the car for a couple hours because I realized I was falling for that trap.

[@jondyer5573]

Top up the gas, small coffee and a smoke break.

[@mynameisntimportant9341]

2:22 is why you turn the music down in your car when you are trying to navigate an unfamiliar neighborhood

[@rannapatil652]

exactly!

[@tgeliot]

Yup, and why I have to tell my GF to back it down at times 😆

[@averageguyadventures]

I'm a dad so I have to make it "funny" as I reach for the volume knob and tell my family "This music's too loud. I can't see."

[@eyeballs50]

similarly, when driving in poor conditions it's hard to carry on a phone conversation--be it hands free of course--where as with a passenger in the vehicle both driver and passenger tend to focus on the road and don't speak so much

[@joeshmoe7967]

Funny you mention that. The second I am navigating intently the stereo has to go way down. I can't slow roll, looking for an address if the music is blaring. So it it not just me. Cheers

[@Aardvark892]

Motorcycle safety is one of my passions. I used to teach motorcycle safety while in the service, for at least three years at the squadron level. Your videos are amazingly well done. Every single person I meet in the future that has any interest in becoming a motorcyclist will be sent directly to your channel. Thank you so much for taking the time to cover something so important!

[@cardinatore]

The cold air trick is super effective, I hope everyone learns it. A few times I had to ride my motorcycle while being heavily sleep deprived (i.e. by sitting I couldn't avoid to fall asleep): only keeping my helmet open held me perfectly vigilant, to the point I wondered why wasn't I feeling tired anymore...

[@legion3308]

“Or watching pawn stars.” I laughed so hard.

[@itscalova8181]

TPB

[@prithvirajdj]

"So hard" is too much. Let's make a deal at "out loud".

[@arief_petanitampanyangsomb8948]

i heard "porn stars"

[@cebedeuz]

@@arief_petanitampanyangsomb8948 lol me too!

[@arief_petanitampanyangsomb8948]

@@cebedeuz hahahahaha

[@JCrozier1]

This has got to be the best produced and edited film I've seen in a long time. I love the changes of camera work and the fades from the building to the parking lot. It's fantastic. I have experienced each of these deficits that you've discussed and definitely figured out how to overcome them. Thanks so much for reminding me right before my next big trip.

[@floydian25]

Anish is a genius

[@dimasarafah2409]

Welcome to F9 sir

[@JCrozier1]

@@dimasarafah2409 I've been watching him for a while, but I think this one was really well done. My other favorite one for him is his recent rain gear video in the woods.

[@marekjakimowicz]

Agree

[@spaiduhz]

yeah. its shocking that FortNine still hasn't hit a million subscribers yet, considering the quality of content he has.

[@Nev36]

Dude. The stretching scene all in one take!’ Man. Even if it took you 10 goes to get it in one; huge respect! That was some expert presenting right there.

[@AshleyPomeroy]

It was like the video for Kylie Minogue's "Come Into My World", but with one Ryan instead of dozens of Kylies.

[@rudskyful]

I can relate to this on so many levels. I passed out while driving my 110cc bike on a curve. It was a 200km+ ride. Good thing I managed to kept my speed at 30kph before blacking out. The tips on this vid are really helpful. Stay hydrated, listen to some music, keep yourself cool, stretching. Before starting on any long rides, get enough sleep. And if all else fails, find a safe place where you rest for a bit. Never force yourself to continue driving if you feel you are really tired.

[@kingkrimson8771]

I've had three "OH CRAP!" incidents happen while touring and they all came near the end of a long day in the saddle. Coincidence? I think not.

[@himanshu17292]

I had read it somewhere. When we're near end of trip. We get desparate to end the ride. Speeds unintentionally increase, we start taking riskier riding unknowingly.

[@jacksonmcdonald5443]

@@himanshu17292 majority of car accidents occur 5 minutes away from their homes. They feel comfortable that they know the next steps so go on auto pilot and don't have the same defensive driving skills as they do when they are in a new environment.

[@Jay-yg8jj]

@@jacksonmcdonald5443 Or most people have a commute that's less than 20 minutes lol These statistics are always skewed (I'm not DISAGREEING, mind you), where it talks about what's more likely to cause an accident. If you ride an R6, you probably do 3,000 miles a year at the most. If you ride a Goldwing, you probably do 20,000 miles a year. Obviously you'd be more likely to get in an accident if you ride significantly more. Hence, mile munching bikes have the highest fatality rate.

[@quentintin1]

Other tricks to stay awake on the haul: -Avoid the highway (if possible); Long, monotonous stretches of road will reduce your alertness, often without you realizing it. Coupled with the higher speeds that reduce your effective peripheral vision that can have you end up in a crash. Prefer the secondary roads, the frequent speed variations, twisting sections and road irregularities will keep you alert as you will have to adjust your throttle, change gears, etc... -Stop and rest; Every two hours on the highway, less frequently on smaller roads. Just stop on the side of the road to drink, stretch, take a nap, answer nature's call, investigate that weird noise, check your map, what ever you do, just take at least 10 minutes to rest and refresh yourself before tackling the next stretch of road. and that's it, take it easy, plan ahead and have a nice ride to wherever, sure it will make your trip last longer, but taking a few more hours beats ending in the ER or the obituary.

[@magicoddeffect]

I totally agree with avoiding the big highways -- when I've gone on tour I also found it much easier to stay awake and alert on the more interesting back roads and smaller highways.

[@GregHuston]

I'd be curious to see the data; if it exists. I 100% prefer to ride anywhere but highway, it's dreadfully boring on a bike but sometimes a necessity to cover ground quickly. BUT I had always heard that the highway is actually the safest place to ride a motorcycle (MSF and Hough).

[@HeyMakedonsky]

@@GregHuston Most probably because on a highway you drive straight, mostly with constant speed, no sharp turns, everyone sees everyone = small room for mistakes. And as we all remember, the most dangerous place for a motorcycle are intersections + turns, thus highways are safer.

[@HeyMakedonsky]

@@openskies4378 I'm riding same sort of a bike - calm one. Honda NC700, whose cruiser speed is 80 mph. Anything extra feels like pushing it over the line. So... driving on right lane with other not-so-speedy traffic helps

[@questioner1596]

Where I live, we have 600 km of long monotonous stretches at 100 km/h before there are even any alternate parallel routes. At least my bike can't make it 400 km to the next gas station, so that guarantees one stop a couple hours in! 😆

[@kyleb5633]

Imagine how easy it would be to just give a usual top 10 type video but instead you always get these high quality videos. It would have been a lot easier for Ryan to just tell you but he shows you and along with very nice edits it makes for one channel with amazing quality and content.

[@martinschulman1751]

You are great. As an old unbold rider, many 1000 mile days, I love to listen to you. At one level it sounds like pontificating BS, like a lecture at an Ivy League school on a subject that doesn't matter but my experience tells me that you are usually right on the button. Keep it up.

[@rubberduckie9866]

This channel should be required viewing for new or aspiring riders.

[@RB01138]

Honestly, as someone who's been riding over 10 years (in Canada and the Philippines) I'd say there are quite a few experienced riders who could stand to do the same thing.

[@thetessellater9163]

A must, indeed.

[@STho205]

If you edit out the gear sales videos. The ones on real topics are pretty good. The ones just pitching overpriced gear are ads. He reviews $500 to $1000 helmets but wears a $150 one in his ride reviews. Hey, he's gotta make a living.

[@tbillyjoeroth]

You must be a Democrat/Fascist, telling people you know what's best for them better than they do themselves. Such-and-such should be REQUIRED.... Typical.

[@STho205]

@@tbillyjoeroth are you 12?

[@nakedsteve6757]

Getting good ear protection really does work, I won't ride without them in regardless of the distance.

[@DontF0rgetThat]

Exactly, I got some Ear Peace plugs and won't go any where without them.

[@somestuffithoughtyoumightl6985]

Instead of included speaker pods, use sealed ear buds with your intercom which increase fidelity and provide noise protection.

[@I_Santos_]

Trace Trace I really want to do that. But I don’t know if it’s just my stupid ears or what, but I haven’t found any ear pods that stay in place while putting my helmet on and off. The last ones I got would come loose and then lodge into my temple when trying to remove the helmet! Lol. So many people use these, it must just be my ears. I would sure like a little something to listen to in the background on long rides.

[@kawasjt]

@@somestuffithoughtyoumightl6985 normal in ear headphones are illegal pretty much everywhere. Just get some earplugs like the ones Ryan has in the video. Sound quality will be better from the included speaker of your com system

[@somestuffithoughtyoumightl6985]

Daniel Santos Don’t worry about spending a lot. My first pair where cheap $20 from Sony that had a very low profile. Personally I prefer the silicone tips as they fit easily into your canal and buds usually include different sizes. The next trick is cable management. The number of times I’ve screamed into my helmet when a wire got snagged and pulled the bud out. Try to tuck as much wire as possible into your liner. Eagerly waiting for Bluetooth capability, but the added bulk of these buds might make it impossible to comfortably fit in your helmet.

[@gerardmontgomery280]

Ryan "Start eairly" Me who leaves for work at 6:30 "What more do you want from me?"

[@bigcj149]

*Jocko Willink has entered the chat*

[@gloucesterdavid]

Shoot, I'm already at work at 6:30

[@JeffinTD]

This was excellent. I’ve experienced starting early, good ear plugs reduce fatigue, and that stiffness (especially in cold) sneaks up on a person, as does dehydration. Most important, don’t get old- or if you do, at least realize you aren’t 18 anymore and that you need to pay attention to your physical state.

[@jeremie8730]

Anish, if in this lifetime I get to travel to Canada, I'll buy you a beer. Even a case. Creative work, man. Fun, subtle, top-notch video and audio editing.

[@hainhatphung1371]

Tired on highway? My wife is a trained first responder, and her tip is either switch partner or drive hungry. A full stomach can drive you drowsy due to long digestion (which requires resting), while an empty one can linger much longer as long you have some juice or coffee in hand. Time your next gas stop and eat lightly does help also.

[@tgeliot]

Agreed. Stay slightly hungry but not to the point of low blood sugar.

[@Strawman20]

Or skip a pee break. It's really hard to be sleepy when you gotta go.

[@joeshmoe7967]

I can't ride on a stuffed stomach, but I can ride hungry either. Know your own personal limits, and allow yourself to 'fail' to make the schedule. If you are good go, if not stop/rest/sleep.

[@JediLeba]

@@Strawman20 Absolutely. I've had to learn to not skip them too often or for too long. Holding the pee can do damage you don't want. I used to sit for hours at work, kinda zoned in. But I did it too often. Now I pee at the first sign of it. The whole process of getting up and walking has extra benefits, as well. Same applies to time on the bike. :-)

[@tbillyjoeroth]

@@Strawman20 lots of coffee will force you to make frequent pit stops

[@mrappelgebak]

You Ryan, you are an absolute master at relaying information. Biker here, advertisement agency when I don't ride. The skills you have on how to inform people, to have them learn and to actually change their behavior is Boss-level. Eloquent, factual, well produced and highly pleasurable. You tick all the boxes mate. You, Ryan, you can make a difference regardless the topic. That is a strength rarely seen. Use it and reach out. Respect. Kindest regards, Giel from Amsterdam.

[@DarthBop]

I like to add in a nap in the early afternoon. Nothing tremendous, but 15 or 20 minutes dozing in the shade is a real refresher.

[@renewagain6956]

Just passed my MSF. Thanks for the part you played in educating me, Ryan.

[@jakesdabest127]

keep learning, take more advanced classes, always practice your basic skills, but also have fun :D

[@twotone3471]

The master course for Motorcycle Riding is Twist of the Wrist. Fortunately available on KZbin.

[@NaveenKumar-oj7xh]

MSF?

[@Strawman20]

@@NaveenKumar-oj7xh MotorSycle Fafety

[@SpiffEatWorld]

@@NaveenKumar-oj7xh MSF = Motorcycle Safety Foundation

[@yaboicezy]

Damaging noises......”K-POP” lol

[@suggestmean6026]

Yea

[@hathaway.1166]

The ARMY FANS won't find us here

[@sagarparajuli8012]

BIG OOF

[@grif5447]

Almost spit my coffee out when I heard that!

[@asnawi159]

@@hathaway.1166 those Army Fans wont find us here coz they dont know shiet about riding😂😂

[@Bmw540M]

Home run once again Ryan. So much detail and so entertaining . Thanks !

[@4theriders]

loved the style in which you guys shot and edited this! the bloopers are great too!

[@Strawman20]

Love the near blooper smile after "Harley everythings."

[@wiredance]

Was it only me who got a Harley ad before watching the video?

[@tinbanger66]

Semi honking, lol. Sometimes I'll honk going by golf courses, if i can see someone about to putt.😎

[@ClarkKulper]

I thought I was the only driver who tried to time my air horn to the golfer's swing 🤣👍

[@thedude4065]

Nope. Not a Semi ... it's the "Seabus" ... a commuter boat that crosses back and forth across Vancouver's harbour ... Ryan and Aneesh were filming close to the Seabus terminal where psgrs get on / off .... when leaving the dock, the Seabus always blasts a long whistle on its airhorn

[@TheMovieGamerGuy]

The only good thing about 2020: FortNine uploading videos all the time. Great work once again!

[@auscurrymaster]

Ryan's videos are getting better and better. This one is just insanely professional. Fantastic stuff.

[@Lancaster604]

I wish this video came out back when I did the Ironbutt, there were so many times I almost died during the last 3hrs going between Vancouver and Banff and back. The bike can take riding 24hrs non stop, the human, can't.

[@monunyabidness5949]

Depends on the human.

[@RB01138]

@@monunyabidness5949 the only thing that depends in that case is how honest that human is.

[@HR-eb4vs]

Iron butt challenges are dangerous. I find them silly, I know how much exhaustion one has after 16-18 hours of riding.

[@wobblysauce]

Found them fine... but also know that I have done most of what the above shown and known others that have done none and had issues.

[@johnsumser9743]

I used to ride ten hours days then realized all I was missing. Now I stop frequently and try to keep days under six hours.

[@CleverIdiot005]

This should be played during the MSF or equivalent riding course prior to being licensed.

[@seanmclellan4373]

A lot of his videos should be😆

[@bobbennett2075]

I’m an instructor and increasingly have students referencing these vids 👍🏻

[@AGardenShed]

You guys are coming out with some brilliant content at the moment. Keep it up.

[@aktrolbold]

This channel is so underrated, One channel every rider must follow!, thanks so much for your amazing content!

[@averageguyadventures]

Loving the green screen use in this video. Makes my efforts look like I filmed them in the unfinished basement of a Turkish prison. Crap, I gotta go, bed check time....

[@kawasaki2024]

The BEST motorcycle channel on KZbin in my opinion. Thanks to you for another great video!

[@paisley3518]

I really enjoy your scientific take on safe motorcycling. Great job!!

[@buddybleeyes]

Honestly I really appreciate all of the videos you do, think every rider can learn something no matter how experienced, how old or young they are :) keep up the good work dude, ride safe ❤

[@charliethechaplin]

minutes before I leave for a 10 hours motorcycle trip (each way) I see this video you guys are like motorcycle genies

[@l.j.turner185]

Notice how many videos Ryan makes specifically to make riding safer ~ shows he really cares

[@Torresmos]

The videos just keep getting better and better. Really nice work.

[@valkryder6833]

As a sometimes long distance rider I can say from experience this is a great video. I won't own a bike that doesn't let me stand up on the pegs to stretch for the reasons mentioned. One thing you didn't mention that helps is having a good friend on his/her own bike and sharing an intercom with you. The conversation and pointing out of landmarks, animals and eyecandy all help keep us alert.

[@ler3968]

Yeah, great tips, as usual, I have been using earplugs 30+ yrs, all the time. Makes a huge difference in better comfort & fatigue/stress reduction, with sunrise starts, frequent stops, ending at approx 1600 hrs. I once started a ride at 2300 hrs to avoid extreme heat-nearly killed meself 10 x never again. BUT another big factor in more crashes & fatalities per recent safety studies is -old dudes 40-70 getting bikes again after many decades or as newbies.

[@hillie47]

Hahaha, 40 is old? :-D

[@charlieross-BRM]

I resemble that remark!

[@akiwiincanada]

You're not wrong about the age thing. I remember reading a study a few years back that studied men over 40, I think, taking up motorcycling for the first time. The 3 year serious crash rate was horrifying. Older, unfit people on big powerful bikes is a recipe for disaster.

[@Larreauad05]

Having lost people to this very problem, I’m glad to see this video posted. Keep up the great content🤙

[@irishboy0909]

Makes me happy when these come out, no matter the subject

[@martinvachon9127]

Again excellent content, as an older rider with my wife just starting to ride we have been watching & learning faithfully for many years. Thank you

[@Nekminute]

Start early and stop before the sun starts going down

[@mikkejalonen9050]

Actualy for me who works 4pm-1am i prefer always to do stuff at night and same with traveling on car or bike

[@MotoCat91]

@@mikkejalonen9050 Ditto, If I began full day tours at the crack of dawn like I originally thought I should, I'd be falling asleep by 3pm (and have actually run off a highway onto the grass from sleeping on a completely straight stretch of road... somehow didn't crash) But I, along with many others who have delayed circadian rhythms do much better by sleeping in nice and late, enjoying a big energy filled breakfast (bigger than you think is necessary) and setting off just after lunch. Also pro tip for Australian level summer rides: 2x large water bottles in easy reach (like upright pockets on a tank bag) with pop tops or button openings + a modular helmet. Flip the modular up, pop the drink open one handed and with the appropriate kind of bottle you can drink without tilting your head back at all.. eyes always on the road. The secondary one should be a squishy bottle so you can flip it upside down and spray water down the back of your neck, or into the vents of a summer jacket.. Sweat is very dehydrating, and soaking your shirt with fresh non-salty water is both more effective at cooling and prevents you from sweating unnecessarily. Just carry some spare clothing to change into at your destination. Also full coverage gear soaked in water in 1000% better at staying cool than being exposed to the sun

[@texasbackroadtwowheelin6358]

This creative team is one of the best in the business. Always delivering information in a unique way. Bravo!

[@MacBegbie]

Consistently high quality, high integrity content. Keep it up, by far the most eye opening & well researched content. Love it, just gets better & better 👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@AkhilSharmaTech]

These videos are really well researched

[@robertwatson39]

Thanks Ryan, well explained. I don’t do long hauls on a bike anymore, but what you covered covers for cars as well. Thanks again from Down Under oh I ride a XV1700.

[@nathanerickson5703]

The bit about multi-tasking and getting distracted is why I only listen to books or music I already know well enough that they won't pull me away from driving. They're familiar background noise, if anything. In fact I've gone on long drives while listening to familiar audiobooks, and the only parts I can recall actually registering during the drive are the parts that were playing while I was stopped at a light.

[@eliasmackrodt1867]

This channel deserves waaaay more viewers for the high quality content! Very informative espacially the point about pre-hydration which was new to me

[@andrewedmond7738]

Just brilliant Ryan. So informative for newer riders who want to do long tours. Keep up the stellar work guys, and G'day from Australia.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

Top tip for staying awake watching KZbin: Watch FortNine

[@kevinsmithgaming]

idk man, i use his godly voice to fall asleep. He's the bob ross of Motorvids

[@TheBmxracer24]

@@kevinsmithgaming same, I fall asleep to his voice, and wake up to it

[@tewtadle268]

Always a good day when Ryan F9 uploads

[@rockinrodlittle]

I love long haul driving. You nailed all the best tips. Well done. Should be mandatory viewing for anyone considering driving further than the local Tim Hortons.

[@rhyspatterson2212]

Your videos are always of the highest quality. You set the bar for motorcycle content by being to the point and relevant. You are currently my favourite content creator :D keep up the smashing work.(also top quality banter)

[@bedmac2]

Definitely in the group of your most useful videos. I would add one other tip, perhaps something of a luxury: I never plan to have a 10 hour ride. On my tours I aim for 300 miles a day, (with a typical range of 275-400 depending on the amount of twistie roads). Seven hours or so in the saddle a day is about it for me. Got to know your limitations!

[@Liberty4Ever]

Great tips. Human factors are important and often overlooked. My tip for maintaining attention is avoiding superslab and riding on scenic back roads. Bonus: maximal enjoyment.

[@Uts9000]

Again, I learned something new and no blatant advert. Thanks

[@2222villawood]

Reminds me of stretches I did on my trusty cb750 on long trips across Texas in the 1970s Thanks for reminding me. Never miss your videos.

[@eastcoastbiker7031]

Can always tell a good video when you learn a few things. Thanks for posting!!! [EastCoastBiker]

[@MethmalDhananjaya]

Passed out when he said "K-POP , more damaging..." LMAO

[@Tim_Sviridov]

Hope that you were not on a bike at the time!

[@1295antonio]

Great transition out of the garage. Really smooth.

[@bibioupa3398]

I didn't think your videos could get better ... Yet you've done it again Ryan 😍

[@videosbruno]

Wear earplugs and you'll feel less tired! Instant +5 stamina lol

[@saurabhsharma1805]

Mad respect, bruh!

[@Billy123bobzzz]

Excellent, useful, important video. Well done!

[@RossyBikes]

Once again a wonderful video with top content and huge production value. Thank you so much for all your hard work guys.

[@frugalcode]

I found it very awakening to start talking/singing to myself in the helmet :)) Also, I portable espresso maker is gold

[@Ix3Wales]

I'll give a full blown rock concert to my bike and helmet, sometimes keep going while in built up areas and then suddenly shut up when I realise that people walking down the street can probably hear me yelling out of tune to myself

[@WilliamLevesqueineX]

Lol I do box truck delivery at night with a lot of highway miles and I sometimes do that xD

[@timsmotorcyclediary]

When planning long trips on group rides, we always have bail-out points. If riders start feeling tired, at certain points there are bail-out routes where they can head straight to the hotel. On long days involving a lot of hours in the saddle, we take more frequent breaks in the afternoon, usually every hour regardless of distance travelled. Finally, an energy drink in the mid to late afternoon like a Red Bull is effective in maintaining alertness.

[@sangeethjayanthan2722]

Very thorough , very informative and truly life-saving ! Well done Fortnine..!

[@MarcinWojtczuk]

That water trip is priceless! Thank you!

[@saquibmahadik6285]

I once shut my eyes at 120kmph got so scared parked at the side of the road found shade from the sun and just shut my eyes, even 10-15 mins of sleep was much better. During my rides of 10-12 hours I got most sleepy in the afternoon when the sun is staring directly at you playing who blinks first (ps. the sun always wins) and in night time when truckers and idiots run high beams all the time like the got tagged in by the sun in the mission to blind others. I feel when you are squinting you automatically tell the body to sleep. Hot weather is particularly dangerous imo.

[@charlieross-BRM]

When the sun is going down and in my eyes (I usually tend to be heading west late in the day) is the time to look for a place to eat. Take long enough that the sun is no longer a problem. Mind you have to be OK with night riding for that which brings other things like staying warm, having good lights, not freaking out at animals crossing the road, etc.

[@theonecrazyfrenchman]

Ya i had one of those 3 weeks ago.... Eyes closed at 120km/h. When they opened again i was down to 70km/h still in the middle of my lane....

[@saquibmahadik6285]

@@theonecrazyfrenchman crazy😳 fatigue is the biggest problem on long rides. I try drinking lots of water to stay fresh. And when you need to pee, that keeps you awake😂

[@dcloser9779]

I keep listen to this guy even if i dont ride bike, he s that good. Keep up the good work👍

[@chybagus]

Been riding 40 years and still learned something new today.

[@sonuvabitch]

Again you've outdone yourself. Great video. Personally, I ride a sports-tourer which is uncomfortable enough to keep me awake but comfortable enough to get me to munch the miles. A small enough tank to mean I need to stop every 180miles. Best of both worlds imo.

[@stanleydenning]

I'm surprised that getting off and taking a short walk wasn't mentioned.

[@keithburt7874]

Stretch the stretch ?!!?

[@tbillyjoeroth]

True, but there aren't any products to mention in that case, and who would watch a 1-minute video?

[@alphastratus6623]

Or take a break in general.

[@Anath525]

I recently did a 3 day trip from South Florida to Northwest Texas. Grand total of 2000 miles, just in 3 days. I did it on my sportster and it was definitely something. Stretching is incredibly important to not be in pain, otherwise you are in for a world of hurt quite literally. That is my biggest tip for being comfortable. However fatigue is something that is incredibly serious. The worst part of my trip was on I-40 in Arkansas. It was the most abysmal, most boring, most hot road I ever witnissed. I literally fell asleep numerous times on the highway, and it was incredibly busy with almost very vehicle being a semi-truck. Taking breaks ever 80-90 miles for 20 minutes did help with fatigue, but it wasnt enough. Fatigue is inevitable when your on the highway, I say your bound to fall asleep eventually. In my opinion its mitigating just how long you fall asleep and how often, because you will if your in it for the long haul. For that, there is only one thing you can do. Think. Keep your mind buzzing, think about something interesting. If you keep thinking and having a conversation with yourself in your head you will not fall asleep for a much longer period.

[@joebot86]

As someone who lives west of AR, going through Arkansas i40 for the first time was incredibly *interesting*. Trees, hills, mountains! I'm used to flat plains and deserts.

[@adamhess6263]

Excellent tips Ryan! And again another entertaining video very well done!

[@louisjones2653]

45 seconds in and im here, never been this early!

[@detectivefatweedington9509]

Louis Jones your girlfriend would disagree

[@David-uk7sm]

Goldwing aka sofa on wheels... can't blame someone for drifting off literally.

[@richardmourdock2719]

Yeah for a long time I called my my six cylinder Lazy-boy. Now I ride a Super Tenere... every bit as comfortable and a lot more flexibility without all the weight.

[@DragonEye135]

I've drifted off to the oncoming lane once. :/ My eyes were shut close, but something made my brain trigger an adrenaline rush. It was the most terrifying moment. Thankfully nothing happened

[@Crlarl]

@@DragonEye135 That's called a micro sleep. Inconsequential during most tasks, potentially lethal during other activities, like driving.

[@tormado]

You're awesome at what you do, Ryan

[@FrameClick]

Ryan the production of your vids is just amazing - and great content too. Not a nice feeling when you get a dose of the snoozes on a long spin!!

[@Cheers_Motherfucker]

If this man was a teacher, there'd be no students not accounted for

[@kerryknight4612]

Check out Eddie Woo on KZbin if you think a teacher can make a difference to a class. Brilliant!

[@ericshaw7859]

Thank you for the great tips! The two that I really take out of this are the 3ml/lb/4hrs before & riding with everything that you're planning to bring for the week before. When my GF realizes that I don't want to bring her anymore because of the extra weight and luggage, I'm sure she'll be understanding lol

[@questioner1596]

My only concern with packing a week ahead of time is leaving my belongings in a parking lot unattended during a 7 hour workday.

[@peterrockwell5862]

Let’s see, a litre of water four hours before my 7:00 AM start is… 03:00 AM!? Not so sure about that!

[@questioner1596]

@@peterrockwell5862, perhaps at 07:00 it's not hot yet, so drink up at 06:30 to be prepared for 10:30 heat. P.S., don't click the times - KZbin thinks I'm referencing parts of the video but I'm talking time of day.

[@peterrockwell5862]

@@questioner1596 Good point; thanks. That is a bit more realistic!

[@pushkar614]

Love your photography and presentation 🙏🏼

[@paulnewstead9693]

I watched this the night before im going on my epic ride from Vancouver BC to Hull Quebec. Your vids are amazing. Lots of great advice.

[@gustavganserpelofswanlake]

Check advices of the "Iron Butt Association", they have some good points more. Plan your breaks, splitt them in refueling, additional 15 min riding and then a true rest in a quite place. Fillingstations along motorways are not realy made to relax, even for a few minutes. Open face helmlets are perfekt for the distressed. Nothing keeps you more alert than pebble sized insects, that want to help you stay awake by smashing themselves on your cheek. ...thank you, dragonfly.

[@joeshmoe7967]

Just did my 5th IB ride Aug 5. It was a re-do of my June 22 ride which I failed to complete. I chock that one up to dehydration, with a little scheduling failure. I agree with finding some of the rest spots not at the gas station. Somewhere green with a view to eat the sandwich I bought while filling up. I prefer fullface helmets but never ride with a closed visor. I need the air. The occasional bug in the face is worth it. Not crazy about the wasp stings (I have had 4, including the Aug 5 ride) but riding with a closed visor removes me mentally from the bike, and I might as well drive a car. Cheers